Families are now permitted to visit offenders in Correctional Centres under strict regulations after the country moved to level 2 of Lockdown.
The Department of Correctional Services said it is critical for members of the public to observe that visits are limited to one non-contact visit per inmate per calendar month, and only one visitor per inmate at a time. Bookings must be pre-arranged at least 48-hours prior to the intended visit to ensure proper planning. As a result, no visits will be allowed without prior appointment. Only visitors with face masks as per the approved name-list will be allowed access. Visitors must arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the commencement of the scheduled visit time. Inmates will be allowed to receive items as per their privilege group and as prescribed in the policy.
Visits will be permitted to take place between 09:00 and 15:00 on visit days. In centres housing both sentenced and remands categories, and depending on the number of inmates, remand detainees may receive visits on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays, excluding Public Holidays. Whereas, sentenced offenders will be allowed visits on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Weekends and Public Holidays.
“We rely on members of the public to be honest during screening in order to prevent any potential infections and cross contamination. Those who have been in contact with COVID-19 positive cases must indicate as that will allow our health care practitioners to conduct extensive screening, which includes taking of vital signs. It is important to note that provision of false information is a criminal offence,” the statement read.
